Evacuation

​Authorities will not ask you to leave your home unless they have reason to believe you are in danger.

If you are ordered to evacuate, take:

your emergency kit

your emergency plan

essential medications and copies of prescriptions

a cell phone (if you have one)

your pets

Pets may not be allowed in some emergency shelters, so plan in advance for a pet-friendly location.

Protect your home:

Shut off water and electricity if officials tell you to.

Leave natural gas service on, unless officials tell you to turn it off. (If you turn off the gas, the gas company has to reconnect it. In a major emergency, it could take weeks for a professional to respond. You would be without gas for heating and cooking).

Lock your home.

If you have time:

Call or e-mail your out-of-town contact. Tell them where you are going and when you expect to arrive. (Once you are safe, let them know. Tell them if any family members have become separated.)